Power Pack Beta Released for Windows Home Server

Microsoft today announced the public beta release of Windows Home Server Power Pack 1. As promised, this release, called "Release Candidate 4," fixes some of the server's bugs, such as a data corruption problem that affected systems with more than one hard disk, according to Microsoft's announcement.

The beta adds some new features, such as Windows Vista x64 edition support, shared folders backup and an easier way for users to remotely access the server. Power Pack 1 beta also provides support for Chinese and Japanese versions of Windows Home Server, the announcement stated.

Microsoft is providing this update for those already using Windows Home Server, as well as "DVD and CD ISO images" that provide an evaluation copy of the product along with the Power Pack 1 beta.

Windows Home Server is designed for home consumer use, allowing families to connect multiple PCs, share multimedia files and backup data. Microsoft recommends that Windows Home Server users back up their installation before applying this Power Pack 1 beta.

Microsoft has established a Windows Home Server Forum page specifically associated with the Power Pack 1 beta release. The Forum already lists multiple "known issues" associated with Release Candidate 4.

Those wanting to test this latest update to Windows Home Server need to join or be members of the Microsoft Connect community. The Microsoft Connect page linking to this beta can be accessed here.